Jersey Shore Business Expo June 6 to Feature Awardees and Business Experts

Posted on May 22, 2023 By

Jersey Shore Business Expo, open to all local and regional business professionals in every local community, June 6, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, 815 Route 37, Toms River, N.J., will feature Awardees and Business Experts.

This event is an opportunity for businesses in the Jersey Shore area to network, start new business relationships, connect, network, build new relationships, and showcase their company and brand. This Expo will also include an award ceremony for the Orthodox Jewish Chamber to express appreciation to three community leaders who have been pillars of New Jersey’s Jewish community’s success throughout the years and who have been instrumental in the economic success of local communities.

The awardees are Senator Robert Singer will receive the Community Service and Business Development Award. In his more than four decades serving the Lakewood community and New Jersey’s 30th Legislative District, Senator Singer has worked tirelessly to create an environment in which business can flourish. In 2019, he was instrumental in bringing the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce’s proposal for a New Jersey Economic Development Day to fruition.

Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy will receive the Community Service Award – Helping Keep Our Businesses Safe. The sheriff is dedicated to combating anti-Semitism and works closely with the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce to keep Jewish businesses safe in times of hate.

Ocean County Commissioner Director Joseph H. Vicari will receive the Ocean County Business Development Award. Heading into retirement after five decades in public office, Commissioner Vicari has been an active participant in the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce’s activities over the years, serving on expo and chamber committees, and working closely with them to help with business development throughout Ocean County.

“It is a true honor for the Jewish community to have such close and productive relationships with political leaders at the highest levels,” says Duvi Honig, founder and CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a privilege to give back and recognize these leaders on behalf of the community and business world.

The following is the lineup of presenters who are renowned experts in their fields and will be available to interact one-on-one with attendees to answer questions and provide guidance. Christina Fuentes is Vice President of Community and Business Development within the New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s (NJEDA’s) Community Development division. The Community Development division is a vital resource for small business development. In her role at the NJEDA, Fuentes provides strategic direction and leads the implementation of all small business services and targeted community development activities. This includes overseeing a team with expertise in community development, business banking, and small business services that work to build thriving, equitable, and inclusive communities. In her presentation, Helping Business on all Levels, she will share her expertise on overcoming challenges in the business world and utilizing government programs and services aimed at community development.

Don Newman, the Manager of Small Business Advocacy within the New Jersey Department of State, Business Action Center, provides services to businesses of all sizes and at all stages of development, from startups through maturity. In addition, Newman manages the NJ Business Helpline, 1-800 JERSEY-7, and a new live chat. This year, through both platforms, his team responded to over 75,000 business questions. With the myriad programs the Business Action Center has to offer, every business should be acquainted with the agency and its relevance for them. Newman’s presentation on Business Empowerment Services and Programs is an opportunity to engage directly with the head of Small Business Advocacy to learn how to obtain what your business needs to grow.

Tricia McLain has 14+ years as a Senior International Trade Specialist for the export promotion arm of the U.S. federal government, the U.S. Commercial Service. This is a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. The services she helps manage include export counseling, business matchmaking, due diligence, market research, and trade event support. Business owners may be surprised to discover some of the resources that are available to them from this arm of the federal government. McLain’s presentation on Import Export/International Trade will be an informative guide to taking advantage of federal assistance on trade.

David Koegel is a middle-market lender with 33 years of direct involvement with business owners. He has worked for Republic Bank, Signature Bank, and Sterling Bank. He is credit-trained and has worked as a Credit analyst for Middle Market Business. He recently joined CRS Capital Funding as its Managing Director. His presentation, Understand Your Business Financial Components to Help Expand Cash Flow and Grow Your Business Effectively, provides the tools for effectively managing cash flow. With a deeper understanding of a company’s liquid assets, you will know how to find that extra money when you need it and how to increase or tighten your cash flow according to your business’s needs.

Kelly McCullough, RDN, LDN is a Clinical Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Coach specializing in health concerns related to weight control and medical issues. As a sought-after instructional and motivational speaker in nutrition and business topics, she has conducted presentations for business teams, health professionals, and community and school programs empowering them in healthy living and team-building strategies. Her presentation on Women’s Entrepreneurship will focus on women’s empowerment in the business world. There will also be a panel on the subject with other women who have made their mark in the business world.

Heshy Friedman, the president of Azurite Marketing Group, a branding, website, and marketing agency, founded his first web design company in 2002 and has been helping companies grow their business with a captivating identity and a strong online presence since then. He is also the founder of the RBBN, the Rockland Business to Business Networking group, and facilitates monthly networking events for professionals in the Rockland area. LinkedIn is such an important networking tool for professionals. Friedman’s presentation, Best Practices for Business Growth Using LinkedIn, will provide his vital insights and experience on this subject.

Duvi Honig, CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce (OJChamber) who is hosting the event, said, “Face-to-face communication is still the most effective way to build a solid relationship for all businesses and a way to build bridges between communities with commerce. We hope local businesses and companies will use this event to foster and grow their businesses.”

To register or for more information, visit ojchamber.com or contact yitzie@ojchamber.com 732-987-7704 Ext. 103.

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Lakewood Shade Tree Commission Beautified Pine Park at 2023 Arbor Day Ceremony

Posted on May 21, 2023 By

To commemorate Arbor Day, the Lakewood Township Committee and the Lakewood Shade Tree Commission held its annual Arbor Day Planting at front playground area of Pine Park at 3:30 p.m., Friday, May 19. At the ceremony, Lakewood Parks Department officials planted three flowering Dogwood trees.

Arbor Day, first celebrated in 1872 in the United States, encourages individuals and groups to plant trees because of their environmental importance. Shade Tree Commission members hold Arbor Day celebrations each year and have planted hundreds of trees throughout the town. Lakewood has been awarded “Tree City USA” for 42 years for its outstanding urban forestry.

Shade Tree Commission members include Chairman Moshe Raitzik, Vice Chairman Craig Theibault, Harrison Pfeffer, and Secretary Mary Kay Malec. Lakewood Deputy Mayor Menashe Miller is the Commission’s liaison to the Township Committee. The Township Committee appoints members to the Shade Tree Commission.

For more information, contact either Moshe Raitzik at geshmak1@yahoo.com. or Craig Theibault at 908-278-4165.

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Pine Belt Cars, Lakewood, Named a Champion Sponsor

Posted on May 1, 2023 By

Pine Belt Cars, Lakewood, has been named a Champion Sponsor of the Point Pleasant Borough High School Annual Seniors vs Staff Kickball Game, Tuesday, May 16 at 7:00 p.m., Al Saner Field/Pine Belt Stadium. The rain date is May 18 at 7:00 p.m.

Pine Belt Cars and Robert Sickel, Brick, owner of Pine Belt Cars, who has supported this event since the first game three years ago, will be seated in the VIP section behind home plate.

This year, about 65 students and 28 staff members are scheduled to play. The fee is $3.00 for students; $5.00 for adults; and $20.00 for Premium Seals. The funds raised will go to Project Graduation*, field trips for the Sports Management class, and black and gold items throughout hallways that increase spirit initiatives.

For more information contact Dave Johnson at 732-272-4530.

*Project Graduation: Project Graduation is a substance free celebration for Point Pleasant High School graduates who will spend the night after their graduation enjoying such activities as arcade games, laser tag, rides, unlimited food, and other fun events.

About Pine Belt Cars: Pine Belt Cars, 1088 Route 88, Lakewood, NJ 08701, is a family-owned and operated New Jersey car dealer that offers new or pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs. Pine Belt Cars specializes in Chevy, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Subaru cars. The dealership employs a professional team of service technicians with the skills and equipment to handle all manner of maintenance and repairs, and has a full stock of authentic parts.

Pine Belt Cars has four dealerships in Lakewood, N.J., and is very committed philanthropically to local communities. Some of Pine Belt’s philanthropic affiliations include sponsoring the Pine Belt Arena, Lakewood Little League, United Way of Ocean County, Lakewood Police Department, Jewish Federation, and the Monmouth-Ocean Development Council.

Pine Belt Cars was founded in 1937 by Leon Sickel. After graduating Franklin & Marshall and serving in the U.S. Naval Reserve, his son David Sickel joined the family business and became the dealer in 1975. When David retired in 2019, his son Robert Sickel became the current president and CEO of Pine Belt Cars, a third-generation dealer. Robert Sickel graduated from the University of Miami.

For more information call 888-3-PineBelt or 732-363-6244 or visit www.pinebeltcars.com or contact Laurie Zalepka at 732-886-4590 or Lauriea.zalepka@rwjb.org.

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Lakewood Chamber to Hold Spring Networking Mixer This May

Posted on May 1, 2023 By

Join fellow Lakewood Chamber members, potential members, and friends for a free networking mixer Wednesday, May 17 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at the Lakewood Branch of Unity Bank, 1255 Route 70, Lakewood. Kosher catering will be available along with beer, wine, and soft drinks.

Please register by May 15 at lakewood.rsvpify.com. or call the Lakewood Chamber Office for more information at 732-363-0012.

The Mission of the Lakewood Chamber: The mission of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce is to serve the needs of the business community by advocacy; i.e., representing the voice of the business community; advancing interaction and relationships among businesses for their collective best interest and that of the community; and enhancing business growth and success through education, services, and the development of programs for members.

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Register Now to Participate in the Lakewood Memorial Day Parade Monday, May 29, 2023

Posted on May 1, 2023 By

Menashe Miller, Lakewood Deputy Mayor and Liaison to the Veterans Advisory Committee, has announced that Lakewood is having its annual Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 29, 2023, beginning at 11:00 a.m. followed by services at the All War Memorial Amphitheater at Lake Carasaljo, North Lake Drive, Lakewood.

Miller said, “The parade is a wonderful opportunity for the entire Lakewood Township community to demonstrate their support for our selfless men and women currently in service here and abroad. It would be an honor to participate in this event.”

Any organization or group that would like to participate in The Memorial Day Parade should contact Sarah Kay in the Mayor’s office at 732-364-2500 Ext. 5973 or email parade@lakewoodnj.gov. as soon as possible for an application.

Participants in the Memorial Day ceremony will include many Lakewood Township officials. The ceremony will begin at the Review Stand in Town Square, Third Street and Clifton Avenue, at 11:00 a.m. The Parade will then pass the Review Stand, proceed down Clifton Avenue, making a right onto Main Street (Route 88), crossing Route 9 South, and proceeding the All War Memorial Amphitheater for the Memorial Day program, the raising of the flag, an Invocation, and the Star Spangled Banner. A wreath will be placed on Lake Carasaljo honoring our veterans, and there will be a 21-Gun Salute and Taps.

Participants are requested to be at their assigned location no later than 10:30 a.m. Bus transportation will be available to transport marchers from the lake back to the starting point of the parade.

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Lakewood Township Career and Internship Fair – May 9

Posted on April 21, 2023 By

Lakewood Township is hosting a Career and Internship Fair on May 9, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Jersey Shore BlueClaws ballpark stadium, 2 Stadium Way, Lakewood, N.J. Walk-ins are welcome. Candidates do not have to be Lakewood residents.

Prospective candidates, who will be able to meet with various department officials to discuss current and future opportunities, should bring a resume unless an application is required.

Full-time positions that require applications include CDL driver – commercial driver’s license required; laborers; public safety tele-communicator trainee; and diesel mechanic. Part-time positions that require an application are crossing guard and emergency medical technician. For applications, visit lakewoodnj.gov\application.

Full-time positions that require a resume include building and electrical inspectors; Clerk1; deputy court administrator; and assistant engineer (DPW-Department of Public Works). Anyone interested in being a part-time Class II police officer, should bring a resume.

Internships include Lakewood Industrial Commission-clerical assistance; Municipal Clerk’s Office – records management intern; and Finance Department – finance intern. For more information about internship opportunities, email hr@lakewoodnj.gov.

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Jersey Shore Business Expo June 6

Posted on April 20, 2023 By

Jersey Shore Business Expo, June 6, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, 815 Route 37, Toms River, N.J., is open to all local and regional business professionals in every local community, including Lakewood, Toms River, Jackson, Howell, and Brick.

This event is an opportunity for businesses in the Jersey Shore area to network, start new business relationships, connect, network, build new relationships, and showcase their company and brand.

Sponsors include Silver Sponsor First Commerce Bank, Lakewood; ROI; NJ.com. ; COBA/ Central Ocean County Associates; TLS/The Lakewood Scoop; the Jewish Link; and the Lakewood Weekly. Exhibitor tables and sponsorships are still available. The Expo includes workshops, seminars and business award.

Duvi Honig, CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce (OJChamber) who is hosting the event, said, “Face-to-face communication is still the most effective way to build a solid relationship for all businesses and a way to build bridges between communities with commerce. We hope local businesses and companies will use this event to foster and grow their businesses.”

To date, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, NJ Business Action Center, First Commerce Bank, Focus Forward Nutrition, Lakeland Bank, and Priority Payments Local are participating. To register or for more information, visit ojchamber.com or contact yitzie@ojchamber.com 732-987-7704 Ext. 103.

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Retirement Plans 101 for HR Professionals May 11

Posted on April 19, 2023 By

Gain a basic understanding of the rules and requirements of offering a retirement plan, and ensure the retirement plan is compliant, meeting regulatory requirements, vendor management, non-discrimination testing, plan design options, fiduciary governance, and investment management decisions at the meeting of JSAHR (Jersey Shore Association for Human Resources), open to the public, on Thursday, May 11 from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. at Jumping Brook Country Club, 210 Jumping Brook Road, Neptune.

This meeting will help attendees increase their insight about the basic requirements for a retirement plan to be qualified for tax benefits; understand the core responsibilities of the plan sponsor (i.e. employer) when offering a plan to employees; outline the primary decisions that an employer must make when establishing a plan; and consider best practices for strong fiduciary governance, investment management, plan administration and employee experience.

Registration including breakfast is $35 for JSAHR members; $50 for non-members; $25 for each guest and those in-transition; and $10 for students with a valid ID. Registrations are due by Friday, May 5 online at: http://jsahr.shrm.org/events or admin@jsahr.org or call JSAHR at 732-701-7155.

JSAHR is a SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) affiliated chapter. This program is pending one (1) SHRM PDC and one (1) HRCI (Human Resource Certification Institute) recertification credit.

About the Speaker Kristen M. Koluch: Kristen Koluch has dedicated her career to helping people prepare for the most significant milestone in life – retirement. She helps corporate-plan sponsors and their retirement, investment and finance committees meet their fiduciary responsibilities; and strives to help their employees and beneficiaries make meaningful progress toward their financial goals. Koluch is co-head of the investment committee and leads the portfolio research team for her team’s institutional clients.

As a Chartered Financial Analyst®, Koluch holds one of the world’s most respected and recognized investment designations, giving her the skills needed for high-level, specialized asset-management responsibilities, including security analysis, portfolio management, and business reporting. As an accredited investment fiduciary analyst, she has detailed knowledge in both a prudent investment process and assessment principles, qualifications desired by both the industry and regulators. In 2020, Koluch obtained her CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER certification, demonstrating her commitment to her profession.

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The Strand Theater Is Seeking Porters

Posted on April 17, 2023 By

The board of the Strand Theater, 400 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood, is seeking to hire porters. Porters, conscientious individuals who are available to work shows and events, ensure that the theater’s facilities are clean, organized, and safe for everyone using and visiting the Strand Theater.

Job responsibilities include bar backing for large shows, keeping the restrooms neat and tidy, assisting with cleanup before and following shows and events, checking in and putting away occasional day deliveries, setting up merchandise tables for the performers, and gallery setup.

Anyone interested in applying for this position, should submit a resume to Amy Freeman, Strand Board president, at amy@strand.org. For more information or questions, leave a message at 732-367-7789, the Strand Theater.

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The Strand Theater Is Inviting All Activity Directors to a Special Event

Posted on April 17, 2023 By

The board members of the Strand Theater, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, 400 Clifton Avenue, Lakewood, are inviting all activity directors to a free special event Saturday, May 13 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Activity directors will be treated to light fare; a tour of the theater, including the Strand Gallery; and information about upcoming schedules, ticket sales, and seating arrangements for each community.

Please R.S.V.P. to karen@strand.org. to attend this very special event.

About the Strand Theater: The historic Strand Theater, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit at 400 Clifton Ave., Lakewood, was designed by world-renowned theater architect Thomas Lamb in 1922 and is listed on the N.J. and National Register of Historic Places. The Strand offers year-round entertainment in plush, air-conditioned surroundings. It is a perfect venue to showcase comedians, musicals, dinner theater, stars from television and movies, and legendary musical entertainers. The reception gallery includes a catering facility for 80 people, a dance floor, and restrooms. It is ideal for theater-in-the-round, smaller events and receptions.

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